What is a "Finger Monkey"?
As the name implies, these adorable animals are true monkeys. They’re the smallest species of monkey and one of the smallest primates in the world. Their official name is the pygmy marmoset. Like other marmosets, they live high in the treetops of South American rainforests. All marmosets are relatively small, but the pygmy grows no longer than 4.6 to 6.2 inches, not including its tail, which can measure between 6.9 and 9 inches. Females tend to be slightly larger than males, weighing just over 4 ounces on average. Baby pygmy marmosets are tiny enough to cling to your finger, much like other monkeys cling to tree branches. They are also sometimes referred to as thumb monkeys, pocket monkeys and little lions, the latter due to the fur that surrounds their heads like a mane. Although not considered an endangered species, finger monkeys do face habitat destruction. Their adaptability to new environments may keep them off the endangered list.
They are playful, clean, they love human company and they make great companions but they are a serious commitment 24/7.. They can not be left alone for long, require exposure to sunlight, have specific dietary requirements and need lots of stimulus. They are social animals and need to interact with you most of the time so please make sure you understand the level of commitment required. If you can supply the time and care to these little guys you will have a wonderful playful caring companion.
The Life of a Finger Monkey
Finger monkeys are social creatures that, in the wild, live in small groups generally made up of an adult male, adult female, and their offspring. The groups range from as few as two to as many as nine or ten individuals. Females can give birth twice a year and normally produce twins each time, although single or triple births do occur. The males carry and care for the newborns for the first two weeks of life. While the species tends to be monogamous, groups may feature an additional male for assistance in newborn care. Juvenile finger monkeys also contribute to the care of babies.
Finger monkeys are active during the day, rising just after dawn unless the day is cloudy or rainy. They spend their time feeding, foraging, grooming, and playing. After their second feeding time, the group moves back to their sleeping area, or roost. The roost is normally a bundle of vines but sometimes is made up of tree holes.
Costs for keeping a Pet Marmoset Monkey:
What is their general personality?
Very affectionate, curious, loves attention and to play. They are extremely playful and they have very amusing personalities, each very unique, and they are extremely intelligent.
How are they with other pets?
Playful with dogs and ferrets and will get along with most cats. Keep an eye for playful fighting as marmosets are very small and dogs can get carried away and may hurt them accidentally.
Will my marmoset bond to only one person?
Generally marmosets will bond with everyone in the house that handles it regularly. It is usually not severely agitated by strangers and may go to them freely. Some are shyer but not generally aggressive.
Can I let my Marmoset run free in my home?
Many Marmoset owners do not even have a cage for them to run around loose like a dog. I would recommend that you baby proof your house. Provide a safe environment for them to run free. This can be done all day long.
Are Finger Monkeys Good Pets?
Marmoset monkeys are some of the smallest monkeys in the world. Their personality is very affectionate, curious, loves attention and to play. The finger monkeys are extremely playful and they have very amusing personalities, each very unique, and they are extremely intelligent. These monkeys are usually diaper trained from an early age. Despite monkey mythology these animals do not throw their poo. These highly intelligent little guys need stimulation from their human family unit as well as many toys to play with in their cage, this referred to as enrichment. In nature, finger monkeys average a 15-20 year lifespan.
What's Included With Your Finger Monkey?
Purchase Agreement, Health Guarantee, USDA Health Certificate, Guidance Sheets, Syringe, Pair of Diaper, Blanket, Favorite Toy, Sample Food, Lifetime support & guidance, Binder with Copy of Purchase Agreement, 30 Days Money Back Guarantee
What food can i expect to feed my finger monkey?
Try to keep them on a plant based diet with limited fruit and avoid processed foods wherever possible.. Here are some of the things you can add but always in moderation and bearing in mind the base of a healthy diet.
Marmoset Powdered Diet, Marmoset Canned Food, Corn on the cob, Cooked oatmeal, Scrambled eggs/hard boiled eggs, Raw peanuts, Cooked yams/cooked sweet potatoes, Chopped broccoli, Eggplant, Banana, Papaya, Mango, Peaches, Chopped carrots, Apples, Cucumbers, Celery, Cheese in small ammounts, Cooked shrimp, Cooked chicken, Cole slaw mix dry with no mayo, Fruit rings, Raw string beans, Cottage cheese, Yogurt, Artificial crab, Cooked kale, Brown rice/ Quinoa, Sunflower seeds, Monkey biscuits, Granola type cereal (dry and only a little), Beans of all type, Peas, Cooked fish, Spinach, Whole wheat bread, Strawberries, Cantaloupe, Watermelon (take seeds out), Seedless Grapes but only a little–causes diarrhea, Insects/mealworms, Mixed fruit Gumivore-Fare which is a Acacia Gum based food (mine love this), Pretzel occasionally (we give a gluten free type), Marshmallows as treats.
As a rule, stick to a vegetable diet with marmoset mix, canned or dried.. Some fruit ( small amount ) but vary it and only feed high carb foods like banana periodically. Avoid canned food with syrup and added sugars. Do not treat them with sugary treats, this is often where the problems start.. Overall quantity of food is important. We can advise you on diet.
Is a Finger Monkey legal to own in my state of residence?
Please refer to this map of each state’s legality of owning a finger monkey as pet. Before placing a deposit or payment for a finger monkey, it is the buyer’s responsibility to verify the lawfulness of owning a pygmy marmoset in their state of residence. If a permit is required for ownership, it is the buyer’s responsibility to complete all requirements to obtain a permit before placing a deposit. Information about laws governing finger monkey ownership in your state.